Treat for townies

Not sure this hotel is still a Best Western - it is more boutique than chain hotel. The Feversham is in that group of Yorkshire hotels that are a bit swanky and luxurious, and that get used by townies like me for a country weekend treat. I went in February - which is a good time to come as Helmsley can get a bit over-run by tourists in summer. It's hard to put your finger on what makes this a good hotel as there isn't one specific - more the country-house atmosphere.

Unique Quality: The hotel sees itself as a dining destination. The dining room is lovely, although quite formal, so be prepared to dress up a bit. It's worth ordering the cheese because a waiter brings over a trolley and talks you through the varieties so you can select the ones you want.

I went to this hotel in winter, so I didn't make use of the outdoor swimming pool, but this would be a real draw in summer. The hotel is also currently planning a spa, to be opened in Autumn 2008, which will be a good addition.